2012 Phillip Island WSBK FP1: Checa Holds Off Biaggi

Carlos Checa started the defense of his 2011 World Superbike title as he meant to continue, taking control of the first session of free practice for the 2012 season opener just over 10 minutes in and never relinquishing the position again. Max Biaggi confirmed that he is still in excellent shape, finishing just under two tenths behind the Althea Ducati, while the Aprilia man had another Ducati behind him, this time the Effenbert Liberty bike of Jakub Smrz. Kawasaki's Tom Sykes ended the first day half a second from Checa in 4th spot, while Honda's Johnny Rea took 5th.